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dish network annual reports 2003

2.
April 5, 2004
To our Shareholders and Bondholders,
It is my pleasure to report that EchoStar Communications Corporation experienced another year
of significant growth in 2003. During the year, our DISH Network crossed the 9 million subscriber
milestone and we now offer local channels by satellite in more than 100 cities. We added 1.245 million
subscribers during the year, finishing with 9.425 million customers.
Operationally, we launched our ninth satellite to enhance the variety of programming we can
offer to consumers. The satellite, EchoStar IX, also carries technology designed to promote EchoStar’s
exploration of broadband services for possible commercial introduction in the future. Our capacity to
provide additional channels and services will further increase with our lease agreements signed during
2003 for two satellites that will be constructed by SES Americom. We currently expect these satellites to
launch during the second half of 2004 and the first half of 2005.
In 2003, EchoStar released more new products into the market than at any other time in its
history. Several of those products were designed to take advantage of the growing demand for high
definition television and retain our position as the leader in digital video recorder (DVR) technology. For
example, EchoStar began marketing a high definition system, complete with receiver, antenna, and the
customer’s choice of a 34-inch or 40-inch HD television monitor. The DISH 322 receiver allows
customers to watch two different channels in two rooms, as does the new DISH Player-DVR 522, which
also offers the ability to record, reverse, play back, fast forward and pause live TV.
From a financial perspective, our company achieved $5.7 billion in revenue, earnings of $225
million (or $0.46 per share) and $254 million in free cash flow. We were also active in the capital markets
during 2003, issuing $2.5 billion of high-yield bonds at favorable interest rates and retiring $1.8 billion of
outstanding debt during the year. These transactions will significantly reduce our interest costs over time.
In other 2003 developments, EchoStar continued to pursue broadband options by signing
agreements with DSL partners SBC Communications, Qwest and Earthlink. The SBC and Qwest
partnerships laid the groundwork for additional distribution channels on sales of our video packages.
Going forward, EchoStar plans to continue to address consumer demand in the areas of
international, interactive, digital video recording and high definition television, and to develop
technological features that will maintain our position as the provider with the best value and the most
exciting products in the pay-TV industry. On behalf of EchoStar’s 15,000 employees, thank you for your
continued support.
Sincerely,
Charles W. Ergen
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
9601 S. Meridian Blvd. • Englewood, Colorado 80112 • Tel: (303) 723-1000 • Fax: (303) 723-1999

3.
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2003
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934
For the transition period from _______________ to ________________.
Commission file number: 0-26176
EchoStar Communications Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Nevada 88-0336997
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
9601 South Meridian Boulevard
Englewood, Colorado 80112
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (303) 723-1000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Class A Common Stock, $0.01 par value
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the Registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein,
and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined by Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes _X_ No ___
As of March 22, 2004, the aggregate market value of Class A Common Stock held by non-affiliates* of the Registrant
approximated $8.2 billion based upon the closing price of the Class A Common Stock as reported on the Nasdaq National
Market as of the close of business on that date.
As of March 22, 2004, the Registrant’s outstanding Common stock consisted of 240,585,644 shares of Class A Common
Stock and 238,435,208 shares of Class B Common Stock, each $0.01 par value.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The following documents are incorporated into this Form 10-K by reference:
Portions of the Registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement to be filed in connection with the Annual Meeting of Shareholders
of Registrant to be held May 6, 2004 are incorporated by reference in Part III herein.
* Without acknowledging that any individual director or executive officer of the Company is an affiliate, the shares
over which they have voting control have been included as owned by affiliates solely for purposes of this
computation.

5.
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
We make “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
throughout this document. Whenever you read a statement that is not simply a statement of historical fact (such as
when we describe what we “believe,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “expect” or “anticipate” will occur, and other
similar statements), you must remember that our expectations may not be correct, even though we believe they are
reasonable. We do not guarantee that any future transactions or events described herein will happen as described or
that they will happen at all. You should read this document completely and with the understanding that actual future
results may be materially different from what we expect. Whether actual events or results will conform with our
expectations and predictions is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. The risks and uncertainties include,
but are not limited to the following:
• we face intense and increasing competition from the satellite and cable television industry, new competitors
may enter the subscription television business, and new technologies may increase competition;
• DISH Network subscriber growth may decrease, subscriber turnover may increase and subscriber
acquisition costs may increase;
• satellite programming signals have been pirated and will continue to be pirated in the future; pirating could
cause us to lose subscribers and revenue, and result in higher costs to us;
• programming costs may increase beyond our current expectations; we may be unable to obtain or renew
programming agreements on acceptable terms or at all; existing programming agreements could be subject
to cancellation;
• weakness in the global or U.S. economy may harm our business generally, and adverse local political or
economic developments may occur in some of our markets;
• the regulations governing our industry may change;
• our satellite launches may be delayed or fail, or our satellites may fail in orbit prior to the end of their
scheduled lives;
• we currently do not have traditional commercial insurance covering losses incurred from the failure of
satellite launches and/or in-orbit satellites and we may be unable to settle outstanding claims with insurers;
• service interruptions arising from technical anomalies on satellites or on-ground components of our DBS
system, or caused by war, terrorist activities or natural disasters, may cause customer cancellations or
otherwise harm our business;
• we may be unable to obtain needed retransmission consents, Federal Communications Commission
(“FCC”) authorizations or export licenses, and we may lose our current or future authorizations;
• we are party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant adverse impact on our
business;
• we may be unable to obtain patent licenses from holders of intellectual property or redesign our products to
avoid patent infringement;
• sales of digital equipment and related services to international direct-to-home service providers may
decrease;
• we are highly leveraged and subject to numerous constraints on our ability to raise additional debt;
• acquisitions, business combinations, strategic partnerships, divestitures and other significant transactions
may involve additional uncertainties;
• terrorist attacks, consequences of the war in Iraq, and the possibility of war or hostilities relating to other
countries, and changes in international political conditions as a result of these events may continue to affect
the U.S. and the global economy and may increase other risks; and
• we may face other risks described from time to time in periodic and current reports we file with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
All cautionary statements made herein should be read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements
wherever they appear. In this connection, investors should consider the risks described herein and should not place
undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.
1

6.
We assume no responsibility for updating forward-looking information contained or incorporated by reference
herein or in other reports we file with the SEC.
In this document, the words “we,” “our” and “us” refer to EchoStar Communications Corporation and its
subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires. “EDBS” refers to EchoStar DBS Corporation and its
subsidiaries.
2

7.
PART I
Item 1. BUSINESS
OVERVIEW
Our Business
Echostar Communications Corporation, through its DISH Network, is a leading provider of satellite delivered digital
television to customers across the United States. DISH Network services include hundreds of video, audio and data
channels, interactive television channels, digital video recording, high definition television (“HDTV”), international
programming, professional installation and 24-hour customer service.
We started offering subscription television services on the DISH Network in March 1996. As of December 31,
2003, the DISH Network had approximately 9.425 million subscribers. We currently have nine in-orbit satellites
which enable us to offer over 1,000 video and audio channels to consumers across the United States. Since we use
many of these channels for local programming, no particular consumer could subscribe to all channels, but all are
available using small consumer dishes. We believe that the DISH Network offers programming packages that have
a better “price-to-value” relationship than packages currently offered by most other subscription television
providers. As of December 31, 2003, there were over 22.0 million subscribers to direct broadcast satellite and other
direct-to-home satellite services in the United States. We believe that there are more than 94.0 million pay television
subscribers in the United States, and there continues to be significant unsatisfied demand for high quality,
reasonably priced television programming services.
DISH Network and EchoStar Technologies Corporation
The operations of EchoStar Communications Corporation (“ECC,” and together with its subsidiaries, “EchoStar,”
the “Company,” “we,” “us,” and/or “our”) include two interrelated business units:
• The DISH Network – which provides a direct broadcast satellite subscription television service we refer to as
“DBS” in the United States; and
• EchoStar Technologies Corporation (“ETC”) – which designs and develops DBS set-top boxes, antennae
and other digital equipment for the DISH Network. We refer to this equipment collectively as “EchoStar
receiver systems.” ETC also designs, develops and distributes similar equipment for international satellite
service providers.
Since 1994, we have deployed substantial resources to develop the “EchoStar DBS System.” The EchoStar DBS
System consists of our FCC-allocated DBS spectrum, nine in-orbit satellites (“EchoStar I” through “EchoStar IX”),
EchoStar receiver systems, digital broadcast operations centers, customer service facilities, and other assets utilized
in our operations. Our principal business strategy is to continue developing our subscription television service in the
United States to provide consumers with a fully competitive alternative to cable television service.
Other Information
We were organized in 1995 as a corporation under the laws of the State of Nevada. Our common stock is publicly
traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “DISH”. Our principal executive offices are located at
9601 South Meridian Boulevard, Englewood, Colorado 80112 and our telephone number is (303) 723-1000.
Recent Developments
Gemstar-TV Guide International transaction. On March 2, 2004, we announced a long-term patent license and
distribution agreement with Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. This transaction includes a one-time cash
payment by us of $190.0 million for use of Gemstar intellectual property and technology, use of the TV Guide brand
on our interactive program guides, and for distribution arrangements with Gemstar to provide for the launch and
3

8.
carriage of the TV Guide Channel as well as the extension of an existing distribution agreement for carriage of the
TVG Network. We also signed an agreement to resolve all outstanding litigation between us and Gemstar.
Also on March 2, 2004, we announced an agreement to acquire Gemstar’s Superstar/Netlink Group LLC (“SNG”),
UVTV distribution, and SpaceCom businesses and related assets for approximately $48.0 million in cash. Our
purchase of these businesses is subject to certain regulatory approvals and customary conditions. The effectiveness
of the patent license, distribution agreements and settlement agreement are subject to certain conditions, including
the closing of the SNG sale.
Repurchase and Redemption of the 9 3/8% Senior Notes. During the fourth quarter of 2003, EDBS repurchased in
open market transactions approximately $201.6 million of the original $1.625 billion principal amount of its 9 3/8%
Senior Notes due 2009. The difference between the market price paid and the principal amount of approximately
$12.7 million and unamortized debt issuance costs related to the repurchased notes of approximately $1.6 million
were recorded as charges to earnings during the fourth quarter of 2003. Effective February 2, 2004, EDBS
redeemed the remaining $1.423 billion principal amount of the notes at 104.688%, for a total of approximately
$1.490 billion. The premium paid of approximately $66.7 million and unamortized debt issuance costs of
approximately $10.8 million were recorded as charges to earnings in February 2004.
DISH NETWORK
Programming
Programming Packages. We use a “value-based” strategy in structuring the content and pricing of programming
packages available from the DISH Network. For example, we currently sell our entry-level “America’s Top 60”
programming package to consumers in digital format for $24.99 per month. This programming package includes 60
of the most popular video channels. Satellite-delivered local channels are currently available separately for an
additional $5.99 per month in 110 of the largest markets in the United States, representing over 85% of all of U.S.
television households. We estimate cable operators charge over $35 per month, on average, for their entry-level
expanded basic service that typically consists of approximately 55 analog channels, including local channels. We
believe that our “America’s Top 120” programming package, which is similar to an expanded basic cable package
plus a digital music service and which we currently sell for $34.99 per month, also compares favorably to similar
cable television programming. Based on cable industry statistics, we estimate that cable operators would typically
charge as much as $45.00 per month for a similar package, including local channels. In addition to the above
mentioned programming packages, we also offer our “America’s Top 180” programming package for $44.99 per
month and our “America’s Everything Pak”, which combines our “America’s Top 180” programming package and
all four movie packages, which are discussed below, for $77.99 per month. Certain of our current new subscriber
promotions include local programming in the qualifying programming packages for no additional fee.
Movie Packages. We currently offer each of our four movie packages, which include up to 10 movie channels per
package, starting at $11.99 per month. We believe we currently offer more movie channels than cable typically
offers at a comparable price.
DISH Latino Programming Packages. We also offer Spanish-language programming packages. For example, we
believe that our “DISH Latino” package, which includes more than 30 Spanish-language programming channels for
$24.99 per month, is one of the most attractive Spanish-language packages available in the United States. We also
offer “DISH Latino Dos,” which includes 120 English and Spanish-language programming channels for $34.99 per
month. Additionally, we offer DISH Latino Max with more than 160 Spanish and English-language channels for
$44.99 per month.
International Programming. Currently, we offer approximately 60 foreign-language channels including Arabic,
South Asian, Hindi, Russian, Chinese, Greek and many others. DISH Network remains the pay-TV leader in
delivering foreign-language programming to customers in the United States at superior values. We believe foreign-
language programming is a valuable niche product that attracts a number of new subscribers who are unable to get
similar programming elsewhere.
4

9.
Sales, Marketing and Distribution
Sales Channels. Independent distributors, retailers and consumer electronics stores currently sell EchoStar receiver
systems and solicit orders for DISH Network programming services. While we also sell receiver systems and
programming directly, independent retailers are responsible for most of our sales. These independent retailers are
primarily local retailers who specialize in TV and home entertainment systems. We also sell EchoStar receiver
systems through nationwide retailers such as Costco, Sears and Wal-Mart, and certain regional consumer electronic
chains. In addition, RadioShack Corporation sells EchoStar receiver systems and DISH Network programming
services through its 5,200 corporate stores and in approximately 1,000 dealer franchise stores nationwide.
We currently have an agreement with JVC to distribute our receiver systems under its label through certain of its
nationwide retailers, and an agreement with Thomson multimedia, Inc. to distribute our receiver systems under the
EchoStar and RCA label through certain of its nationwide retailers.
We offer our distributors and retailers what we believe are competitive incentive programs. Through these
programs, qualified distributors and retailers receive, among other things, commissions upon new subscriber
activations and monthly residual incentives dependent, among other things, on continued consumer subscription to
qualified programming.
Marketing. We use regional and national broadcast and print advertising to promote the DISH Network. We also
offer point-of-sale literature, product displays, demonstration kiosks and signage for retail outlets. We provide
guides that describe DISH Network products and services to our retailers and distributors at nationwide educational
seminars and directly by mail. Our mobile sales and marketing team visits retail outlets regularly to reinforce
training and ensure that these outlets quickly fulfill point-of-sale needs. Additionally, we dedicate a DISH Network
channel and provide a retailer specific website to provide information about special services and promotions that we
offer from time to time.
Promotional Subsidies. Our future success in the subscription television industry depends on, among other factors,
our ability to acquire and retain DISH Network subscribers. We provide varying levels of subsidies and incentives
to attract customers, including free or subsidized receiver systems, installations, antenna, programming and other
items. This marketing strategy emphasizes our long-term business strategy of maximizing future revenue by selling
DISH Network programming to a large potential subscriber base and rapidly increasing our subscriber base. Since
we subsidize consumer up-front costs, we incur significant costs each time we acquire a new subscriber. Although
there can be no assurance, we believe that on average we will be able to fully recoup the up-front costs of subscriber
acquisition from future subscription television services revenue.
During July 2000, we began offering our DISH Network subscribers the option to lease receiver systems. Our
current equipment lease promotion, the Digital Home Advantage program, offers consumers the ability to lease up
to three receiver systems and connect up to four televisions with one of several qualifying programming packages
starting at $29.99 per month, including local programming, where available. We expect this marketing strategy will
reduce the cost of acquiring future subscribers because we retain ownership of the receiver systems. Upon
termination of service, Digital Home Advantage subscribers are required to return the receiver and certain other
equipment to us. While we do not recover all of the equipment upon termination of service, equipment that is
recovered after deactivation is reconditioned and re-deployed at a much lower cost than new equipment.
We base our marketing promotions, among other things, on current competitive conditions. In some cases, if
competition increases, or we determine for any other reason that it is necessary to increase our subscriber acquisition
costs to attract new customers, our profitability and costs of operation would be adversely affected.
5

10.
Digital Video Recording and Interactive Services
We continue to expand our offerings to include interactive services. DISH Network customers can also purchase or
lease receivers with built-in hard disk drives that permit viewers to pause and record live programs without the need
for videotape. We now offer receivers capable of storing up to 180 hours of programming and expect to increase
storage capacity on future receiver models. We also currently offer receivers that provide a wide variety of
innovative interactive television services and applications.
Broadband Strategic Alliances
Since 2002, we have entered into agreements to combine DISH Network satellite television service with the Internet
access capabilities and, in certain instances, the communications services of Earthlink, Qwest Communications
International Inc. and Sprint to offer bundled service packages to consumers.
During July 2003, we announced an agreement with SBC to co-brand our DISH Network service with SBC’s
telephony, high-speed data and other communications services. SBC Communications is marketing the bundled
service, which became available to consumers in early 2004, and is responsible for integrated order-entry, customer
service and billing.
SBC purchases set-top box equipment from us to sell to bundled service customers. SBC also outsources
installation and certain customer service functions to us for a fee. As part of the agreement, SBC will pay us certain
development and implementation fees.
Satellites
Overview of Our Satellites and FCC Authorizations. We presently have nine satellites in geostationary orbit
approximately 22,300 miles above the equator. Each of our satellites has a minimum design life of 12 years and is
equipped to operate as follows:
• EchoStar I and EchoStar II each have 16 transponders that operate at approximately 130 watts of
power.
• Subject to the anomalies described below, EchoStar III and EchoStar IV each have 32
transponders that operate at approximately 120 watts per channel, switchable to 16 transponders
operating at over 230 watts per channel.
• EchoStar V has 32 transponders that operate at approximately 110 watts per channel, switchable to
16 transponders operating at approximately 220 watts per channel.
• Each of EchoStar VI, EchoStar VII and EchoStar VIII has 32 transponders that operate at
approximately 120 watts per channel, switchable to 16 transponders operating at approximately
240 watts per channel. EchoStar VII and EchoStar VIII also include spot-beam technology. The
use of spot-beams on EchoStar VII and EchoStar VIII enables us to increase the number of
markets where we provide local channels, but reduces the number of video channels that could
otherwise be offered across the entire United States. Each transponder can transmit multiple
digital video, audio and data channels.
• EchoStar IX, which commenced operations at the 121 degree location during October 2003, has 32
Ku-band transponders that operate at approximately 110 watts per channel, in addition to a Ka-
band payload. EchoStar IX provides expanded video and audio channels to DISH Network
subscribers who install a specially-designed dish. The Ka-band spectrum is being used to test and
verify potential future broadband initiatives and to initiate those services.
6

11.
Our satellites are located in orbital positions, or slots, that are designated by their western longitude. An orbital
position describes both a physical location and an assignment of spectrum in the applicable frequency band. The
FCC has divided each DBS orbital position into 32 frequency channels. Each transponder on our satellites can
exploit one frequency channel. Through digital compression technology, we can currently transmit between nine and
eleven digital video channels from each transponder, on average. The FCC licensed us to operate 96 direct
broadcast satellite frequencies at various orbital positions including:
• 21 frequencies at the 119 degree orbital location and 29 frequencies at the 110 degree orbital
location, both capable of providing service to the entire continental United States;
• 11 frequencies at the 61.5 degree orbital location, capable of providing service to the Eastern and
Central United States;
• 32 frequencies at the 148 degree orbital location, capable of providing service to the Western
United States;
• 3 frequencies at the 157 degree orbital location, capable of providing service to the Western
United States.
We currently broadcast the majority of our programming from the 110 and 119 degree locations. The majority of
our customers have satellite receiver systems that are equipped to receive signals from both of these locations.
Satellite Anomalies. EchoStar I and EchoStar II are both Series 7000 class satellites designed and manufactured by
Lockheed Martin Corporation. While both of those satellites are currently functioning properly in orbit, a similar
Lockheed Series 7000 class satellite owned by Loral Skynet recently experienced total in-orbit failure. While we
currently do not have sufficient information available to reach any conclusions as to whether other satellites of the
Series 7000 class might be at increased risk of suffering a similar malfunction, no telemetry or other data indicates
EchoStar I or EchoStar II would be expected to experience a similar failure. During December 2003, a spare Traveling
Wave Tube Amplifier (“TWTA”) was switched in to support operations on transponder 25 on EchoStar I due to
degraded operation of the primary TWTA. There are a total of 23 remaining TWTA’s available to support the 16
operational transponders on EchoStar I. During 2003, one of the spare TWTA’s on EchoStar II which had been found
to be suspect during original In Orbit Test Operations in 1996 was declared failed. There are a total of 23 remaining
TWTA’s available to support the 16 operational transponders on EchoStar II. EchoStar I and II are currently located at
the 148 west orbital location.
During January 2004, a TWTA pair on EchoStar III failed, resulting in a loss of service on one of our licensed
transponders. Including the seven TWTA pairs that malfunctioned in prior years, these anomalies have resulted in the
failure of a total of 16 TWTA’s on the satellite to date. While originally designed to operate a maximum of 32
transponders at any given time, the satellite was equipped with a total of 44 TWTA’s to provide redundancy. EchoStar
III can now operate a maximum of 28 transponders but due to redundancy switching limitations and the specific
channel authorizations, currently it can only operate on 17 of the 19 FCC authorized frequencies at the 61.5 degree
west orbital location.
During 2000, 2001 and 2002, EchoStar V experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of three solar array strings, and
during January 2003, EchoStar V experienced anomalies resulting in the loss of an additional solar array string. The
satellite has a total of approximately 96 solar array strings and approximately 92 are required to assure full power
availability for the estimated 12-year design life of the satellite. In addition, during January 2003, EchoStar V
experienced an anomaly in a spacecraft electronic component which affects the ability to receive telemetry from certain
on-board equipment. Other methods of communication have been established to alleviate the effects of the failed
component. An investigation of the solar array and electronic component anomalies, none of which have impacted
commercial operation of the satellite, is continuing. In July 2001, EchoStar V experienced the loss of one of its three
momentum wheels. Two momentum wheels are utilized during normal operations and a spare wheel was switched in
at the time. A second momentum wheel experienced an anomaly in December 2003 and was switched out resulting in
operation of the spacecraft in a modified mode utilizing thrusters to maintain spacecraft pointing. While this operating
mode provides adequate performance, it results in an increase in fuel usage and a corresponding reduction of spacecraft
life. This operating mode is not expected to reduce the estimated design life of the satellite to less than 12 years.
7

12.
The investigation into the anomaly is continuing. Until the root causes of these anomalies are finally determined, there
can be no assurance future anomalies will not cause further losses which could impact commercial operation of the
satellite.
During 2002, two of the thrusters on EchoStar VIII experienced anomalous events and are not currently in use.
During March 2003, an additional thruster on EchoStar VIII experienced an anomalous event and is not currently in
use. The satellite is equipped with a total of 12 thrusters that help control spacecraft location, attitude, and pointing
and is currently operating using a combination of the other nine thrusters. This workaround requires more frequent
maneuvers to maintain the satellite at its specified orbital location, which are less efficient and therefore result in
accelerated fuel use. In addition, the workaround has resulted in certain gyroscopes being utilized for aggregate
periods of time substantially in excess of their originally qualified limits. However, neither of these workarounds
are expected to reduce the estimated design life of the satellite to less than 12 years. An investigation of the thruster
anomalies, including the development of additional workarounds for long term operations, is continuing. None of
these events has impacted commercial operation of the satellite to date. Until the root cause of these anomalies has
been finally determined, there can be no assurance that these or future anomalies will not cause further losses which
could impact commercial operation of the satellite.
EchoStar VIII is equipped with two solar arrays which convert solar energy into power for the satellite. Those
arrays rotate continuously to maintain optimal exposure to the sun. During June and July 2003, EchoStar VIII
experienced anomalies that temporarily halted rotation of one of the solar arrays. In December 2003 the other array
experienced a similar anomaly. Both arrays are currently fully functional, but rotating in a mode recommended by
the satellite manufacturer which allows full rotation but is different than the originally prescribed mode. An
investigation of the solar array anomalies, none of which have impacted commercial operation of the satellite, is
continuing. Until the root cause of these anomalies is finally determined, there can be no assurance future anomalies
will not cause losses which could impact commercial operation of the satellite.
During September 2003, a single battery cell on EchoStar VIII exhibited reduced capacity. There are 72 battery
cells on EchoStar VIII and all loads can be maintained for the full design life of the satellite with up to two battery
cells fully failed. An investigation of the battery cell anomaly, which has not impacted commercial operation of the
satellite, is underway. Until the root cause of the anomaly is determined, there can be no assurance future anomalies
will not cause losses which could impact commercial operation of the satellite.
Satellite Insurance. We currently do not carry launch and/or in-orbit insurance for any of our nine in-orbit
satellites. To satisfy insurance covenants related to EDBS’ senior notes, we have reclassified an amount equal to the
depreciated cost of five of our satellites from cash and cash equivalents to cash reserved for satellite insurance on
our balance sheet. As of December 31, 2003, cash reserved for satellite insurance totaled approximately $176.8
million. Effective February 2, 2004, as a result of the redemption of EDBS’ 9 3/8% Senior Notes due 2009, our
obligation to reserve for satellite insurance declined to the depreciated cost of three of our satellites. As an indirect
result of this redemption, during February 2004, we were able to reduce our reserve and reclassify approximately
$57.2 million, representing the depreciated cost of two of our satellites, from cash reserved for satellite insurance to
cash and cash equivalents. We will continue to reserve cash for satellite insurance on our balance sheet until such
time, if ever, as we can again insure our satellites on acceptable terms and for acceptable amounts, or until the
indenture covenants requiring the insurance are no longer applicable.
We believe we have in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to expeditiously recover transmission of most programming
in the event one of our in-orbit satellites fails. However, the cash reserved for satellite insurance is not adequate to
fund the construction, launch and insurance for a replacement satellite in the event of a complete loss of a satellite.
Programming continuity cannot be assured in the event of multiple satellite losses.
In September 1998, we filed a $219.3 million insurance claim for a total loss under the launch insurance policies
covering EchoStar IV. The insurance carriers offered us a total of approximately $88.0 million, or 40% of the total
policy amount, in settlement of the EchoStar IV insurance claim. We are currently in arbitration with the insurers
regarding this claim. See “Item 3 – Legal Proceedings.”
8

13.
Certain Other Risks to Our Satellites. Meteoroid events pose a potential threat to all in-orbit geosynchronous
satellites including our DBS satellites. While the probability that our satellites will be damaged by meteoroids is
very small, that probability increases significantly when the Earth passes through the particulate stream left behind
by various comets.
Occasionally, increased solar activity poses a potential threat to all in-orbit geosynchronous satellites including our
direct broadcast satellites. The probability that the effects from this activity will damage our satellites or cause
service interruptions is generally very small.
Some decommissioned spacecraft are in uncontrolled orbits which pass through the geostationary belt at various
points, and present hazards to operational spacecraft including our direct broadcast satellites. The locations of these
hazards are generally well known and may require us to perform maneuvers to avoid collisions.
Satellites under Construction and Leased Satellites. EchoStar X, which is expected to be launched during 2005, is
being built by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems and will be used for expanded DISH Network video
services.
During March 2003 we entered into a satellite service agreement with SES Americom for all of the capacity on a
new FSS satellite, which may be located at the 105 degree orbital location or certain other orbital locations. We also
agreed to lease all of the capacity on an existing in-orbit FSS satellite at the 105 degree orbital location beginning
August 1, 2003 and continuing at least until the new satellite is launched. We intend to use the capacity on the
satellites to offer a combination of programming including local network channels in additional markets, together
with satellite-delivered, high-speed internet services. During August 2003, we exercised our option under the SES
Americom agreement to also lease for an initial ten-year term all of the capacity on a new DBS satellite at an orbital
location to be determined at a future date. We anticipate that this satellite will be launched during the fourth quarter
of 2005.
During February 2004, we entered into two additional satellite service agreements for capacity on FSS satellites.
Pending the successful launch and entry into service of the previously described new FSS satellite, the satellite
under the first of these agreements is scheduled for launch during the first half of 2005. We intend to use this
additional satellite as backup in the case of any unexpected events related to the initial operational deployment of the
satellite at the 105 degree orbital location, and may also utilize the satellite to offer local network channels in
additional markets, together with satellite-delivered, high-speed internet services. The satellite under the second of
these agreements is planned for launch during the second half of 2006 and is contingent upon, among other things,
obtaining necessary regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that we will obtain these approvals or that the
satellite will ultimately be launched. It is our intent to use the capacity on this satellite to offer additional value-
added services.
Components of a DBS System
Overview. In order to provide programming services to DISH Network subscribers, we have entered into agreements
with video, audio and data programmers, who deliver their programming content to our digital broadcast operations
centers in Cheyenne, Wyoming and Gilbert, Arizona, via commercial satellites, fiber optic networks or microwave
transmissions. We monitor those signals for quality, and can add promotional messages, public service
programming, advertising, and other information. Equipment at our digital broadcast operations centers then
digitizes, compresses, encrypts and combines the signal with other necessary data, such as conditional access
information. We then “uplink” or transmit the signals to one or more of our satellites and broadcast directly to
DISH Network subscribers.
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In order to receive DISH Network programming, a subscriber needs:
• a satellite antenna, which people sometimes refer to as a “dish,” and related components;
• a “satellite receiver” or “set-top box”; and
• a television set.
EchoStar Receiver Systems. EchoStar receiver systems include a small satellite dish, a digital satellite receiver that
decrypts and decompresses signals for television viewing, a remote control, and other related components. We offer
a number of set-top box models. Our standard system comes with an infrared universal remote control, an on-screen
interactive program guide and V-chip type technology for parental control. Our premium models include a hard
disk drive enabling additional features such as digital video recording of up to 180 hours of programming, a
UHF/infrared universal remote, and an expansion port for future upgradeability. Certain of our standard and
premium systems allow independent satellite TV viewing on two separate televisions. We also offer a variety of
specialized products including HDTV receivers. Set-top boxes communicate with our authorization center through
telephone lines to, among other things, report the purchase of pay-per-view movies and other events. DISH
Network reception equipment is incompatible with competitors’ systems.
Although we internally design and engineer our receiver systems, we outsource manufacturing to high-volume
contract electronics manufacturers. Sanmina-SCI Corporation (formerly known as SCI Systems, Inc.) is the primary
manufacturer of our receiver systems. JVC also manufactures some of our receiver systems. In addition, during
2002, we signed manufacturing agreements with RCA/Thomson and Celetron USA, Inc.
Conditional Access System. We use conditional access technology to encrypt our programming so only those who
pay can receive it. We use microchips embedded in credit card-sized access cards, or “smart cards” to control
access to authorized programming content. ECC owns 50% of NagraStar LLC, a joint venture that provides us with
smart cards. Nagra USA owns the other 50% of NagraStar. NagraStar purchases these smart cards from NagraCard
SA, a Swiss company which is an affiliate of Nagra USA. These smart cards, which we can update or replace
periodically, are a key element in preserving the security of our conditional access system. When a consumer orders
a particular channel, we send a message by satellite that instructs the smart card to permit decryption of the
programming for viewing by that consumer. The set-top box then decompresses the programming and sends it to
the consumer’s television.
Theft of subscription television programming has been widely reported and our signal encryption has been pirated
and could be further compromised in the future. Theft of our programming reduces future potential revenue and
increases our net subscriber acquisition costs. In addition, theft of our competitors’ programming can also increase
our churn. Compromises of our encryption technology could also adversely affect our ability to contract for video
and audio services provided by programmers. It is illegal to create, sell or otherwise distribute mechanisms or
devices to circumvent that encryption. We continue to respond to compromises of our encryption system with
security measures intended to make signal theft of our programming more difficult. In order to combat piracy and
maintain the functionality of active set-top boxes that have been sold to subscribers, we intend to replace older
generation smart cards with newer generation smart cards in the future. However, there can be no assurance that
these security measures or any future security measures we may implement will be effective in reducing piracy of
our programming signals.
Installation. While many consumers have the skills necessary to install our equipment in their homes, we believe
that most installations are best performed by professionals, and that on time, quality installations are important to
our success. Consequently, we have expanded our installation business, which is conducted through our DISH
Network Service LLC subsidiary. We use both employees and independent contractors for professional
installations. Independent installers are held to DISH Network Service LLC service standards to attempt to ensure
each DISH Network customer receives the same quality installation and service. Our offices and independent
installers are strategically located throughout the continental United States. Although there can be no assurance, we
believe that our internal installation business helps to improve quality control, decrease wait time on service calls
and new installations and helps us better accommodate anticipated subscriber growth.
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Digital Broadcast Operations Centers. Our principal digital broadcast operations center is located in Cheyenne,
Wyoming. We also own a digital broadcast operations center in Gilbert, Arizona which we use as back up to our
main facility located in Cheyenne and to support the increase in the number of markets in which we offer local
network channels by satellite. Almost all of the functions necessary to provide satellite-delivered services occur at
the digital broadcast operations centers. The digital broadcast operations centers use fiber optic lines and downlink
antennas to receive programming and other data. These centers then uplink programming content to our direct
broadcast satellites. Equipment at our digital broadcast operations centers performs substantially all compression
and encryption of DISH Network’s programming signals.
Customer Service Centers. We currently own or operate nine customer service centers fielding substantially all of
our customer service calls. Potential and existing subscribers can call a single telephone number to receive
assistance for hardware, programming, billing, installation and technical support. We continue to work to automate
simple phone responses and to increase Internet-based customer assistance in order to better manage customer
service costs.
Subscriber Management. We presently use, and are dependent on, CSG Systems International Inc.’s software
system for the majority of DISH Network subscriber billing and related functions.
Competition for Our Dish Network Business
We compete in the subscription television service industry against other satellite, cable television and land-based
system operators offering video, audio and data programming and entertainment services. Many of these
competitors have substantially greater financial, marketing and other resources than we have. Our ability to increase
earnings depends, in part, on our ability to compete with these operators.
Cable Television. Cable television operators have a large, established customer base, and many have significant
investments in, and access to, programming. Of the 97% of United States television households in which cable
television service was available as of December 31, 2003, approximately 64% subscribed to cable. Cable television
operators continue to leverage their advantages relative to us by, among other things, bundling their analog video
service with expanded digital video services delivered terrestrially or via satellite, offering efficient 2-way high-
speed Internet access, and telephone service on upgraded cable systems, providing service to multiple television sets
within the same household at a lesser incremental cost to the consumer, and providing local and other programming
in a larger number of geographic areas. As a result of these and other factors, we may not be able to continue to
expand our subscriber base or compete effectively against cable television operators.
DirecTV and other DBS and Direct-to-Home System Operators. During December 2003, an affiliate of News
Corporation acquired a 34% controlling interest in The DirecTV Group (formerly known as Hughes Electronics
Corporation), the owner of DirecTV. News Corporation’s diverse world-wide satellite, content and other related
businesses may provide competitive advantages to DirecTV with respect to the acquisition of programming, content
and other assets valuable to our industry.
DirecTV’s satellite receivers are sold in a significantly greater number of consumer electronics stores than ours. As
a result of this and other factors, our services are less well known to consumers than those of DirecTV. Due to this
relative lack of consumer awareness and other factors, we are at a competitive marketing disadvantage compared to
DirecTV.
According to SEC filings made by DirecTV Holdings LLC, DirecTV owns a fleet of seven high powered DBS
satellites, has 46 DBS frequencies that are capable of full coverage of the continental United States, offered more
than 800 channels of combined video and audio programming and has approximately 12.2 million subscribers. We
believe DirecTV continues to be in an advantageous position relative to our company with regard to, among other
things, certain programming packages, and, possibly, volume discounts for programming offers.
Furthermore, other companies in the United States have conditional permits or have leased transponders for a
comparatively small number of DBS frequencies that can be used to provide service to portions of the United States,
and Rainbow DBS Company LLC (an affiliate of one of the largest cable providers in the United States) has recently
launched its own DBS satellite. New entrants such as Rainbow DBS may have a competitive advantage over us in
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deploying some new products and technologies because of the substantial costs we would be required to incur to
make new products or technologies available across our installed base of over 9 million subscribers.
VHF/UHF Broadcasters. Most areas of the United States can receive traditional terrestrial VHF/UHF television
broadcasts of between 3 and 10 channels. These broadcasters provide local, network and syndicated programming.
The local content nature of the programming may be important to the consumer, and VHF/UHF programming is
typically provided free of charge. In addition, the FCC has allocated additional digital spectrum to licensed
broadcasters. At least during a transition period, each existing television station will be able to retain its present
analog frequencies and also transmit programming on a digital channel that may permit multiple programming
services per channel. Our business could be adversely affected by continued free broadcast of local and other
programming and increased program offerings by traditional broadcasters.
New Technologies and Competitors. New technologies also could have a material adverse effect on the demand for
our DBS services. For example, new and advanced local multi-point video distribution services are currently being
implemented. In addition, entities such as regional telephone companies, which are likely to have greater resources
than we have, are implementing and supporting digital video compression over existing telephone lines and digital
“wireless cable.” These companies are also developing video-over-fiber technologies that have the potential to
dramatically increase the amount and quality of video programming distributed via the internet. Our ability to
compete successfully with these and other new technologies will be impacted by, among other things, increasing
demand for high definition television, or HDTV, programming. We may have difficulty developing competitive
HDTV-related technology and securing adequate spectrum capacity for transmission of HDTV signals.
In addition to the challenges posed by new technologies, mergers, joint ventures, and alliances among franchise,
wireless or private cable television operators, regional Bell operating companies and others may result in the
creation of new or more integrated providers capable of offering bundled cable television and telecommunications
services in competition with us. We may not be able to compete successfully with existing competitors or new
entrants in the market for subscription television services.
ECHOSTAR TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
EchoStar Technologies Corporation (“ETC”), one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, internally designs and develops
EchoStar receiver systems. Our satellite receivers have won numerous awards from the Consumer Electronics
Manufacturers Association, retailers and industry trade publications. We outsource the manufacture of EchoStar
receiver systems to third parties who manufacture the receivers in accordance with our specifications.
The primary purpose of our ETC division is to support the DISH Network. However, in addition to supplying
EchoStar receiver systems for the DISH Network, ETC also sells similar digital satellite receivers internationally,
either directly to television service operators or to our independent distributors worldwide. This has created a source
of additional business for us and synergies that directly benefit DISH Network. For example, our satellite receivers
are designed around the Digital Video Broadcasting standard, which is widely used in Europe and Asia. The same
employees who design EchoStar receiver systems for the DISH Network are also involved in designing set-top
boxes sold to international TV customers. Consequently, we benefit from the possibility that ETC’s international
projects may result in improvements in design and economies of scale in the production of EchoStar receiver
systems for the DISH Network.
We believe that direct-to-home satellite service is particularly well-suited for countries without extensive cable
infrastructure, and we are actively soliciting new business for ETC. However, there can be no assurance that ETC
will be able to develop additional international business or maintain its existing customers.
Through 2003, our primary international customer was Bell ExpressVu, a subsidiary of Bell Canada, Canada’s
national telephone company. We currently have certain binding purchase orders from Bell ExpressVu, and we are
actively trying to secure new orders from other potential international customers. However, we cannot guarantee at
this time that those negotiations will be successful. Our future international revenue depends largely on the success of
these and other international operators, which in turn, depends on other factors, such as the level of consumer
acceptance of direct-to-home satellite TV products and the increasing intensity of competition for international
subscription television subscribers.
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ETC’s business also includes our Atlanta-based EchoStar Data Networks Corporation and our UK-based Eldon
Technology Limited subsidiaries. EchoStar Data Networks is a supplier of technology for distributing Internet and
other content over satellite networks. Eldon Technology designs and tests various software and other technology
used in digital televisions and set-top boxes, strengthening our product design capabilities for satellite receivers and
integrated televisions in both the international and United States markets.
Competition for Our ETC Business
Through ETC, we compete with a substantial number of foreign and domestic companies, many of which have
significantly greater resources, financial or otherwise, than we have. We expect new competitors to enter this
market because of rapidly changing technology. Our ability to anticipate these technological changes and introduce
enhanced products expeditiously will be a significant factor in our ability to remain competitive. We do not know if
we will be able to successfully introduce new products and technologies on a timely basis in order to remain
competitive.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
We are subject to comprehensive regulation by the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”). We are also
regulated by other federal agencies, state and local authorities and the International Telecommunication Union
(“ITU”). Depending upon the circumstances, noncompliance with legislation or regulations promulgated by these
entities could result in suspension or revocation of our licenses or authorizations, the termination or loss of contracts
or the imposition of contractual damages, civil fines or criminal penalties.
The following summary of regulatory developments and legislation is not intended to describe all present and
proposed government regulation and legislation affecting the video programming distribution industry. Government
regulations that are currently the subject of judicial or administrative proceedings, legislative hearings or
administrative proposals could change our industry to varying degrees. We cannot predict either the outcome of
these proceedings or any potential impact they might have on the industry or on our operations.
FCC Regulation under the Communications Act
FCC Jurisdiction over our Operations. The Communications Act of 1934, as amended, which we refer to as the
“Communications Act”, gives the FCC broad authority to regulate the operations of satellite companies.
Specifically, the Communications Act gives the FCC regulatory jurisdiction over the following areas relating to
communications satellite operations:
• the assignment of satellite radio frequencies and orbital locations;
• licensing of satellites, earth stations, the granting of related authorizations, and evaluation of the fitness
of a company to be a licensee;
• approval for the relocation of satellites to different orbital locations or the replacement of an existing
satellite with a new satellite;
• ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of such assignments and authorizations, including
required timetables for construction and operation of satellites and other due diligence requirements;
• avoiding interference with other radio frequency emitters; and
• ensuring compliance with other applicable provisions of the Communications Act and FCC rules and
regulations governing the operation of satellite communications providers and multi-channel video
distributors.
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In order to obtain FCC satellite licenses and authorizations, communication satellite operators must satisfy strict
legal, technical and financial qualification requirements. Once issued, these licenses and authorizations are subject
to a number of conditions including, among other things, satisfaction of ongoing due diligence obligations,
construction milestones, and various reporting requirements.
Our Basic DBS Frequency Licenses and Authorizations. Most of our programming is transmitted to our
customers on frequencies in the 12.2 to 12.7 GHz range, which we refer to as the “DBS” frequencies. We are
licensed or authorized by the FCC to operate DBS frequencies at the following orbital locations:
11 frequencies at the 61.5 degree orbital location;
•
29 frequencies at the 110 degree orbital location;
•
21 frequencies at the 119 degree orbital location;
•
32 frequencies at the 148 degree orbital location; and
•
3 frequencies at the 157 degree orbital location.
•
We also sublease six transponders (corresponding to six frequencies) at the 61.5 degree orbital location from
licensee Dominion Video Satellite, Inc.
Our Satellites. We currently own and operate eight DBS satellites (EchoStar I through EchoStar VIII) and one
Fixed-Satellite Service (“FSS”) Ku/Ka-band satellite (EchoStar IX). Our satellites operate at the following orbital
locations:
EchoStar V and EchoStar VII operate at the 119 degree orbital location;
•
EchoStar VI and EchoStar VIII operate at the 110 degree orbital location;
•
EchoStar III operates at the 61.5 degree orbital location;
•
EchoStar I and II operate at the 148 degree orbital location;
•
EchoStar IV operates at the 157 degree orbital location;
•
EchoStar IX operates at the 121 degree orbital location.
•
EchoStar IV is not equipped to operate on all three of our licensed frequencies at the 157 degree orbital location. It
is therefore currently operating on a different three-channel configuration at that location under a Special Temporary
Authority (“STA”). The STA expired on February 15, 2004. While we have requested both an extension of the
STA and a modification of our license to permit that configuration, we cannot be sure that the FCC will grant these
requests.
Duration of our Satellite Licenses and Authorizations. Generally speaking, all of our satellite licenses are subject
to expiration unless renewed by the FCC. While under a recent FCC rulemaking the term of certain satellite
licenses has been extended from 10 to 15 years, the term of DBS licenses remains at 10 years; our licenses are
currently set to expire at various times starting as early as 2006. In addition, our special temporary authorizations
are granted for periods of only 180 days or less, subject again to possible renewal by the FCC.
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Opposition and other Risks to our Licenses and Authorizations. Several third parties have opposed, and we
expect them to continue to oppose, some of our FCC satellite authorizations and pending requests to the FCC for
extensions, modifications, waivers and approvals of our licenses. In addition, we have not filed, or have not timely
filed, certain reports required in connection with our satellite authorizations. Because of this opposition and our
failure to comply with certain requirements of our authorizations, it is possible the FCC could revoke, terminate,
condition or decline to extend or renew certain of our authorizations or licenses.
On January 16, 2004, the Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit heard arguments in a challenge brought by
Advanced Communications Corporation (“Advanced”), the former holder of DBS permits at the 110 degrees and
148 degrees west orbital locations, against the FCC’s 1995 cancellation of its permits. While previous appeals by
Advanced have failed, we cannot be certain that Advanced will not ultimately be successful. If it is successful,
certain of our licenses to operate core DBS satellites from those orbital locations may be at risk in further FCC
proceedings.
Our FSS Licenses. In addition to our DBS licenses and authorizations, we have received conditional licenses from
the FCC to operate Fixed-Satellite Service (“FSS”) satellites in the Ka-band and the Ku-band, including licenses to
operate EchoStar IX (a hybrid Ka/Ku-band satellite) at the 121 degree orbital location. EchoStar also recently
received Ka-band licenses at the 97 and 123 degree orbital locations. Use of these licenses and conditional
authorizations is subject to certain technical and due diligence requirements, including the requirement to construct
and launch satellites according to specific milestones and deadlines. Our projects to construct and launch Ku-band,
extended Ku-band and Ka-band satellites are in various stages of development.
Risks to our Ka-Band and Ku-Band Authorizations. On March 15, 2004, we relinquished our license for a Ku-band
satellite at the 83 degree orbital location and declined our license for a Ka-band satellite at the 125 degree orbital
location. With respect to our license for a Ka-band system at the 83 degree orbital location, the FCC requires
construction, launch and operation of the satellite system to be completed by June 25, 2005. The FCC has stated that it
may cancel our corresponding authorizations if we fail to file adequate reports or to demonstrate progress in the
construction of that satellite system. In addition, some companies with interests adverse to ours are challenging our
licenses. Our Ka-band licenses at the 83 and 121 degree orbital locations allow us to use only 500 MHz of Ka-band
spectrum in each direction, while certain other licensees have been authorized to use 1000 MHz in each direction. Our
Ka-band licenses at the 123 and 97 degree orbital locations are for the full 1000 MHz in each direction. With respect to
these licenses, the FCC requires construction, launch and operation of the satellites to be completed by December of
2008 and March 2009 respectively. ITU deadlines, however, require satellites to be operating at those slots by June of
2005. There can be no assurance that we will develop acceptable plans to meet these deadlines, or that we will be able
to utilize the orbital slot.
VisionStar. We also own a 90% interest in VisionStar, Inc. (“VisionStar”), which holds a Ka-band license at the
113 degree orbital location. VisionStar did not complete construction or launch of the satellite by the required
milestone deadlines and has requested an extension of those milestones from the FCC. Failure to receive an
extension would render the license invalid.
Recent FCC Rulemaking Affecting our Licenses and Applications. The FCC has recently changed its system for
processing applications to a “first-come, first-served” process. Since that change became effective, we have filed or
refiled, and have pending before the FCC, new applications for as many as nine satellites in several different
frequency bands. Several of our direct or indirect competitors have filed petitions to deny or dismiss certain of our
pending applications or have requested that conditions be placed on authorizations we requested. We have received
Ka-band licenses for the 97, 123 and 125 degree orbital locations, while a number of other applications have been
dismissed without prejudice by the FCC. We cannot be sure that the FCC will grant any of our outstanding
applications, or that the authorizations, if granted, will not be subject to onerous conditions. Moreover, the cost of
building, launching and insuring a satellite can be as much as $250 million or more, and we cannot be sure that we
will be able to construct and launch all of satellites for which we have requested authorizations. The FCC has also
imposed a $5 million bond requirement for all future satellite licenses, which would be forfeited by a licensee that
does not meet its diligence milestones for a particular satellite. We have already posted a bond for the Ka-band
license we recently received at the 123 degree orbital location and must post a bond for our Ka-band licenses at the
97 degree orbital location or forfeit our license for that location.
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New Satellite License Auction Proceedings. The FCC has proposed to auction licenses for DBS frequencies at the
61.5 degree, 157 degree, 166 degree and 175 degree orbital locations. Rainbow, a DBS licensee with a satellite at
the 61.5 degree orbital location, has argued that we should not be eligible to bid for two available channels at the
61.5 degree orbital location. If this argument is accepted by the FCC, it will prevent us from acquiring these
channels and making more productive use of the satellite operating at that orbital location. On January 15, 2004,
the FCC affirmed that it had the necessary auction authority and that no eligibility restrictions were warranted for
the 157, 166 and 175 degree licenses. It deferred the question of eligibility restrictions that would preclude us from
bidding for the 61.5 degree license to a separate order.
Expansion DBS Spectrum. The FCC has also allocated additional expansion spectrum for DBS services
commencing in 2007. This could create significant additional competition in the market for subscription television
services. We filed applications for such additional spectrum during March 2002 but cannot predict whether the FCC
will grant these applications.
Other Services in the DBS band. The FCC has also adopted rules that allow non-geostationary orbit fixed satellite
services to operate on a co-primary basis in the same frequency as direct broadcast satellite and Ku-band-based fixed
satellite services. In the same rulemaking, the FCC authorized use of the DBS spectrum that we use by terrestrial
communication services. The FCC recently auctioned licenses for these terrestrial services during January, 2004.
We are a passive investor in one of the winning bidders in the auction, but we cannot be sure that licenses will in
fact be awarded to that bidder. Also, there can be no assurance that operations by non-geostationary orbit fixed
satellite services or terrestrial communication services in the DBS band will not interfere with our DBS operations.
Proposals to allow 4.5 Degree Spacing. During April 2002, SES Americom, Inc. requested a declaratory ruling that
it is in the public interest for SES Americom to offer satellite capacity for third party direct-to-home services to
consumers in the United States and certain British Overseas Territories in the Caribbean. SES Americom proposes
to employ a satellite licensed by the Government of Gibraltar to operate in the same uplink and downlink frequency
bands as us, from an orbital position located in between two orbital locations where EchoStar and DirecTV have
already positioned satellites. DirecTV, which opposes SES’s petition, has itself filed a petition for rulemaking for
standards to permit such 4.5 degree spacing. On January 23, 2004, we filed comments in response to DirectTV’s
petition for rulemaking. We stated in these filings that we believe 4.5 degree spacing is feasible and noted that we
ourselves have filed applications for satellites located 4.5 degrees from existing DBS satellites. We acknowledged,
however, that such narrow spacing presents risks of interference with current DBS operations. DirecTV has recently
requested FCC authority to provide service to the United States from a Canadian orbital slot. The possibility that the
FCC will allow service to the U.S. from closer-spaced DBS slots and from foreign slots may permit additional
competition against us from other DBS providers.
Rules Relating to Alaska and Hawaii. The holders of DBS authorizations issued after January 19, 1996 must
provide DBS service to Alaska and Hawaii if such service is technically feasible from the authorized orbital
location. Our authorizations at the 110 degree, 148 degree and 157 degree orbital locations were received after
January 19, 1996. While we provide service to Alaska and Hawaii from both the 110 and 119 degree orbital
locations, those states have expressed the view that our service should more closely resemble our service to the
mainland United States and otherwise needs improvement. Further, the satellite we currently operate at the 148 and
157 degree orbital locations are not able to provide service to Alaska and/or Hawaii. We received temporary waivers
of the service requirement for the 148 degree orbital location subject to several conditions and have requested a
similar waiver for the 157 degree orbital location. However, the FCC could revoke these waivers or reject our
request for a new waiver at any time.
The FCC has also concluded a rulemaking which seeks to streamline and revise its rules governing DBS operators.
In connection with this rulemaking, the FCC clarified its geographic service requirements to introduce a requirement
that we provide programming packages to residents of Hawaii and Alaska that are “reasonably comparable” to what
we offer in the contiguous 48 states. We cannot be sure that this requirement will not affect us adversely by
requiring us to devote additional resources to serving these two states.
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Other Communications Act Provisions
Rules Relating to Broadcast Services. The FCC imposes different rules for “subscription” and “broadcast”
services. We believe that because we offer a subscription programming service, we are not subject to many of the
regulatory obligations imposed upon broadcast licensees. However, we cannot be certain whether the FCC will find
in the future that we must comply with regulatory obligations as a broadcast licensee, and certain parties have
requested that we be treated as a broadcaster. If the FCC determines that we are a broadcast licensee, it could require
us to comply with all regulatory obligations imposed upon broadcast licensees, which are generally subject to more
burdensome regulation than subscription television service providers.
Public Interest Requirements. Under a requirement of the Cable Act, the FCC imposed public interest
requirements on DBS licensees. These rules require us to set aside four percent of channel capacity exclusively for
noncommercial programming for which we must charge programmers below-cost rates and for which we may not
impose additional charges on subscribers. This could displace programming for which we could earn commercial
rates and could adversely affect our financial results. The FCC has generally not reviewed all aspects of our
methodology for processing carriage requests, computing the channel capacity we must set aside or determining the
rates that we charge public interest programmers. We cannot be sure that, if the FCC were to review these
methodologies, it would find them in compliance with the public interest requirements. Certain parties have
challenged certain aspects of our methodology in a pending proceeding, and we have recently received a letter from
the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau regarding these issues. We cannot be sure that the Commission will not take
enforcement action against us, which may result in fines and/or changes to our methodology for compliance with
these rules.
Other Open Access Requirements. The FCC has also commenced a proceeding regarding distribution of high-
speed Internet access services and interactive television services. We cannot be sure that the FCC will not ultimately
impose open access obligations on us, which could be very onerous, and could create a significant strain on our
capacity and ability to provide other services.
Plug and Play. The FCC has recently adopted the so-called “plug and play” standard for compatibility between
digital television sets and cable systems. That standard was developed through negotiations involving the cable and
consumer electronics industries but not us, and we are concerned that it imposes certain “encoding rules” on all
multichannel video programming distributors, including us, and that the standard and its implementation process
favor cable systems. We have filed a petition for review of the FCC’s “plug and play” order with the federal Court
of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on various grounds, but we cannot be sure that the court will not
uphold the FCC’s decision. The FCC has also recently adopted the “broadcast flag” method for copy-protecting
content broadcast digitally over the air. The cable industry has requested that certain requirements established by
the FCC also extend to DBS set-top boxes. It is too early to fully assess the risks to us from the adoption of these
standards and the possible extension of these requirements to DBS boxes.
The Satellite Home Viewer Improvement Act
Retransmission of Distant Networks. The Copyright Act, as amended by the Satellite Home Viewer Improvement
Act, or “SHVIA”, permits satellite retransmission of distant network channels only to “unserved households.” An
example of a distant station retransmission is a Los Angeles network station retransmitted by satellite to a subscriber
outside of Los Angeles. That subscriber qualifies as an “unserved household” if he or she cannot receive, over the
air, a signal of sufficient intensity (“Grade B” intensity) from a local station affiliated with the same network.
SHVIA also established a process whereby consumers predicted to be served by a local station may request that this
station waive the unserved household limitation so that the requesting consumer may receive distant signals by
satellite. If the waiver request is denied, SHVIA entitles the consumer to request an actual test, with the cost to be
borne by either the satellite carrier, such as us, or the broadcast station depending on the results. The testing process
required by the statute can be very costly.
In addition, SHVIA has affected and continues to affect us adversely in several other respects. The legislation
prohibits us from carrying more than two distant signals for each broadcasting network and leaves the FCC’s Grade
B intensity standard unchanged without future legislation. The FCC rules mandated by SHVIA require us to delete
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substantial programming (including sports programming) from these signals. Although we have implemented certain
measures in our effort to comply with these rules, these requirements have significantly hampered and may further
hamper our ability to retransmit distant network and superstation signals. The burdens the rules impose upon us
may become so onerous that we may be required to substantially alter or stop retransmitting many or all superstation
signals. In addition, the FCC’s sports blackout requirements, which apply to all distant network signals, may require
costly upgrades to our system.
The statutory license for retransmitting distant stations is set to expire on December 31, 2004, and we cannot be sure
that Congress will extend that license. If the license is not extended, we will be unable to retransmit distant stations
altogether.
Opposition to Our Delivery of Distant Signals. See “Item 3 - Legal Proceedings – Distant Network Litigation” for
information regarding opposition to our delivery of distant signals.
Retransmission of Local Networks. SHVIA, generally gives satellite companies a statutory copyright license to
retransmit local broadcast channels by satellite back into the market from which they originated, subject to obtaining
the retransmission consent of the local network station. If we fail to reach retransmission consent agreements with
broadcasters we cannot carry their signals. This could have an adverse effect on our strategy to compete with cable
and other satellite companies, which provide local signals.
While we have been able to reach retransmission consent agreements with most local network stations in markets
where we currently offer local channels by satellite, roll-out of local channels in additional cities will require that we
obtain additional retransmission agreements. We cannot be sure that we will secure these agreements or that we will
secure new agreements upon the expiration of our current retransmission consent agreements, some of which are
short term. SHVIA requires broadcasters to negotiate retransmission consent agreements in good faith but FCC
rules implementing that obligation provide very few limitations on broadcasters’ actions.
“Must Carry” and Other Requirements. SHVIA also imposes “must carry” requirements on DBS providers and
the FCC has adopted detailed “must carry” rules applicable to us. These rules generally require that satellite
distributors carry all the local broadcast stations requesting carriage in a timely and appropriate manner in areas
where they choose to offer local programming, not just the four major networks. Since we have limited capacity,
the number of markets in which we can offer local programming is reduced by the “must carry” rules because we
are required to carry large numbers of stations in each market we serve. The legislation also includes provisions that
could expose us to material monetary penalties, and permanent prohibitions on the sale of all local and distant
network channels, based on inadvertent violations of the legislation, prior law, or the FCC rules. Imposition of these
penalties would have a material adverse effect on our business operations generally.
Several “must carry” complaints by broadcasters against us are pending at the FCC. The FCC has ruled against us in
certain of these proceedings, and we cannot be sure that the FCC will rule in our favor in other pending or future
proceedings. Such a ruling could result in a decrease in the number of local areas where we can offer local network
programming. This in turn could increase churn in those markets and preclude us from offering local network
channels in new markets, thereby reducing our competitiveness.
Furthermore, we cannot be sure that the FCC will not interpret or implement its rules in such a manner as to inhibit
our use of our two-dish solution to comply with the “must carry” requirements. The National Association of
Broadcasters and Association of Local Television Stations filed an emergency petition during 2002 asking the FCC
to modify or clarify its rules to prohibit or hamper our compliance plan. In response, during April 2002, a bureau of
the FCC issued a declaratory ruling and order finding that our compliance plan violated certain provisions of SHVIA
and the FCC’s “must carry” regulations. Challenges to the April 2002 order have been filed by various parties,
including one by us, and are presently pending.
During April 2002, the FCC bureau also issued an order granting in part numerous complaints filed against us by
individual broadcast stations that claimed violations of the “must carry” requirements similar to those addressed in
the prior April 2002 order. Depending upon the ultimate outcome of these proceedings (including the extent to
which our compliance reports are accepted), further orders by the bureau or the FCC itself could result in a decrease
in the number of local areas where we will be able to offer local network programming until new satellites are
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launched. This, in turn, could significantly increase the churn of subscribers in those areas where local network
programming is no longer offered and impair our ability to gain new subscribers in those areas, which could
materially adversely affect our financial performance. We could also be exposed to damage claims by local stations
if we are found by any court to have violated the “must carry” requirements. These damage claims could materially
adversely affect our financial position.
Finally, while the FCC has decided for now not to impose “must carry” obligations on satellite carriers for high
definition television stations or dual digital/analog carriage obligations — i.e., additional requirements in connection
with the carriage of digital television stations that go beyond carriage of one signal (whether analog or standard
definition digital) for each station, the FCC still has pending rulemaking proceedings on these matters. These
proceedings may result in further, even more onerous, digital carriage requirements.
Dependence on Cable Act for Program Access
We purchase a substantial percentage of our programming from cable-affiliated programmers. The Cable Act’s
provisions prohibiting exclusive contracting practices with cable affiliated programmers have been extended from
October 2002 to October 2007, but this extension could be reversed. Upon expiration of those provisions, many
popular programs may become unavailable to us, causing a loss of customers and adversely affecting our revenues
and financial performance. Any change in the Cable Act and the FCC’s rules that would permit the cable industry or
cable-affiliated programmers to discriminate against competing businesses, such as ours, in the sale of programming
could adversely affect our ability to acquire programming at all or to acquire programming on a cost-effective basis.
We believe that the FCC generally has not shown a willingness to enforce the program access rules aggressively.
As a result, we may be limited in our ability to obtain access (or non-discriminatory access) to programming from
programmers that are affiliated with the cable system operators.
Affiliates of certain cable providers have denied us access to sports programming they feed to their cable systems
terrestrially, rather than by satellite. To the extent that cable operators deliver additional programming terrestrially
in the future, they may assert that this additional programming is also exempt from the program access laws. These
restrictions on our access to programming could materially adversely affect our ability to compete in regions
serviced by these cable providers.
The International Telecommunication Union
Our DBS system also must conform to the International Telecommunication Union, or “ITU”, broadcasting satellite
service plan. If any of our operations are not consistent with this plan, the ITU will only provide authorization on a
non-interference basis pending successful modification of the plan or the agreement of all affected administrations to
the non-conforming operations. Accordingly, unless and until the ITU modifies its broadcasting satellite service plan
to include the technical parameters of DBS applicants’ operations, our satellites, along with those of other DBS
operators, must not cause harmful electrical interference with other assignments that are in conformance with the
plan. Further, DBS satellites are not presently entitled to any protection from other satellites that are in conformance
with the plan. The United States government has filed modification requests with the ITU for EchoStar I, EchoStar
II and EchoStar III. The ITU has requested certain technical information in order to process the requested
modifications. We have cooperated, and continue to cooperate, with the FCC in the preparation of its responses to
the ITU requests. We cannot predict when the ITU will act upon these requests for modification or if they will be
granted.
Export Control Regulation
We are required to obtain import and general destination export licenses from the United States government to
receive and deliver components of direct-to-home satellite TV systems. In addition, the delivery of satellites and
related technical information for the purpose of launch by foreign launch services providers is subject to strict export
control and prior approval requirements.
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PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS
Many entities, including some of our competitors, have or may in the future obtain patents and other intellectual
property rights that cover or affect products or services related to those that we offer. In general, if a court
determines that one or more of our products infringes on intellectual property held by others, we may be required to
cease developing or marketing those products, to obtain licenses from the holders of the intellectual property, or to
redesign those products in such a way as to avoid infringing the patent claims. If those intellectual property rights
are held by a competitor, we may be unable to obtain the intellectual property at any price, which could adversely
affect our competitive position.
We may not be aware of all intellectual property rights that our products may potentially infringe. In addition, patent
applications in the United States are confidential until the Patent and Trademark Office issues a patent and,
accordingly, our products may infringe claims contained in pending patent applications of which we are not aware.
Further, the process of determining definitively whether a claim of infringement is valid often involves expensive
and protracted litigation, even if we are ultimately successful on the merits.
We cannot estimate the extent to which we may be required in the future to obtain intellectual property licenses or
the availability and cost of any such licenses. Those costs, and their impact on net income, could be material.
Damages in patent infringement cases may also include treble damages in certain circumstances. To the extent that
we are required to pay unanticipated royalties to third parties, these increased costs of doing business could
negatively affect our liquidity and operating results. We are currently defending patent infringement actions. We
cannot be certain the courts will conclude these companies do not own the rights they claim, that our products do not
infringe on these rights, that we would be able to obtain licenses from these persons on commercially reasonable
terms or, if we were unable to obtain such licenses, that we would be able to redesign our products to avoid
infringement. See “Item 3 - Legal Proceedings.”
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS
We are subject to the requirements of federal, state, local and foreign environmental and occupational safety and
health laws and regulations. These include laws regulating air emissions, water discharge and waste management.
We attempt to maintain compliance with all such requirements. We do not expect capital or other expenditures for
environmental compliance to be material in 2004 or 2005. Environmental requirements are complex, change
frequently and have become more stringent over time. Accordingly, we cannot provide assurance that these
requirements will not change or become more stringent in the future in a manner that could have a material adverse
effect on our business.
SEGMENT REPORTING DATA AND GEOGRAPHIC AREA DATA
For operating segment and principal geographic area data for 2003, 2002 and 2001 see Note 11 in the Notes to the
Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 15 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
EMPLOYEES
We had approximately 15,000 employees at December 31, 2003, most of whom are located in the United States. We
generally consider relations with our employees to be good.
Although a total of approximately 100 employees in three of our field offices have voted to unionize, we are not
currently a party to any collective bargaining agreements. However, we are currently negotiating collective
bargaining agreements at these offices.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
We, as a reporting company, are subject to the informational requirements of the Exchange Act and accordingly file
our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements and
other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). The Public may read and copy any
materials filed with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20549.
Please call the SEC at (800) SEC-0330 for further information on the Public Reference Room. As an electronic
filer, our public filings are maintained on the SEC’s Internet site that contains reports, proxy and information
statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that website
is http://www.sec.gov.
WEBSITE ACCESS
Our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to
those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act also may be accessed free of
charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable after we have electronically filed such material with,
or furnished it to, the SEC. The address of that website is http://www.echostar.com.
We have adopted a written code of ethics that applies to all of our directors, officers and employees, including our
principal executive officer and senior financial officers, in accordance with Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
of 2002 and the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission promulgated thereunder. Our code of ethics is
available on our corporate website at www.echostar.com. In the event that we make changes in, or provide waivers
from, the provisions of this code of ethics that the SEC requires us to disclose, we intend to disclose these events on
our website.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
(furnished in accordance with Item 401 (b) of Regulation S-K, pursuant to General Instruction G(3) of Form 10-K)
The following table sets forth the name, age and offices with EchoStar of each of our executive officers, the period
during which each executive officer has served as such, and each executive officer’s business experience during the
past five years:
Name Age Position
Charles W. Ergen ............. 51 Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Michael T. Dugan ............ 55 President, Chief Operating Officer
James DeFranco ............... 51 Executive Vice President and Director
Michael Kelly................... 42 Executive Vice President, DISH Network Service LLC and Customer Service
Operations
Steven B. Schaver ............ 50 President, EchoStar International Corporation
David K. Moskowitz........ 45 Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Secretary and Director
Mark W. Jackson ............. 43 Senior Vice President, EchoStar Technologies Corporation
Michael R. McDonnell .... 40 Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Michael Schwimmer ........ 43 Senior Vice President, Programming
O. Nolan Daines............... 44 Senior Vice President, Broadband
Charles W. Ergen. Mr. Ergen has been Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of
EchoStar since its formation and, during the past five years, has held various executive officer and director positions
with EchoStar’s subsidiaries. Mr. Ergen, along with his spouse and James DeFranco, was a co-founder of EchoStar
in 1980.
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